Las Catalinas: A Car-Free Coastal Paradise
Discover Las Catalinas: A unique Costa Rican beach town with car-free streets, stunning nature, and a focus on sustainable living.
Las Catalinas is a newly constructed, car-free beach town on Costa Rica's Guanacaste coast, emphasizing health, sustainability, and a balanced lifestyle. With stunning architecture inspired by Latin American and Mediterranean towns, it offers a unique pedestrian-friendly experience with access to pristine beaches, hiking and biking trails, and various water activities.
A brief summary to Las Catalinas
- Las Catalinas, Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Explore the diverse hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, for stunning views of the coastline and tropical dry forest.
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Playa Danta and explore the calm waters and rocky outcrops along the coast.
- Visit during the shoulder season (November-December or April-May) for lush scenery and pleasant temperatures.
- Take advantage of the town's walkability and explore the charming streets, shops, and restaurants on foot.
Getting There
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Driving
If arriving from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, the drive to Las Catalinas is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Take Highway 21 and head west towards the coast. Parking is available in a designated area outside of town. From there, the town is easily explored on foot.
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Shuttle
Private shuttle services are available from both LIR and Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José. Shuttles offer a convenient and comfortable option for reaching Las Catalinas. Prices from LIR range from $115 to $125, while prices from SJO range from $295 to $330. The journey from SJO takes approximately 4-5 hours.
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Public Transport
From Tamarindo, take the bus to Flamingo. Transportes La Pampa operates this bus twice daily, and tickets cost $1–2. The journey takes approximately 44 minutes. From Flamingo, you can take a taxi to Las Catalinas. This should cost between $14 and $18, and take approximately 10 minutes.
Discover more about Las Catalinas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
0.4 km
Secluded adults-only luxury with panoramic Pacific views, private plunge pools, and easy access to Costa Rican adventure in Las Catalinas.
Flamingo Adventures
4.3 km
Explore Guanacaste's stunning landscapes with Flamingo Adventures, your premier tour operator for unforgettable eco-tours and thrilling water activities.
Casa Los Monos
4.3 km
Experience tranquility at Casa Los Monos in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica: Lush gardens, beach access, and authentic Costa Rican charm await!
Villa Fugata
4.4 km
Experience cliffside luxury with breathtaking ocean views at Villa Fugata in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. A serene escape awaits!
360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences
4.4 km
Experience luxurious coastal living with breathtaking ocean views at 360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Casa las Brisas
4.5 km
Discover the ultimate tropical escape at Casa las Brisas, where stunning views and luxury meet the beauty of Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Villa Bougainvillea 4
4.6 km
Experience luxury at Villa Bougainvillea in Playa Flamingo: stunning views, private pool, and elegant design for an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway.
Presidential Suites Playa Flamingo,Guanacaste Province.Costa Rica
4.6 km
Experience coastal living at Presidential Suites in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. Ocean views, comfortable condos, and beachside bliss await!
The Social Scene
4.6 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica through stunning photography at The Social Scene in Guanacaste, where every moment is captured with artistic flair.
Special Places of Costa Rica - Playa Flamingo
4.6 km
Experience the beauty of Playa Flamingo, a premier destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
Amigos Tacos y Beer
4.7 km
Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and refreshing local beers at this casual Playa Flamingo eatery. Open daily, 11 AM - 9 PM.
Angelina's
4.7 km
Fine dining in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica, with globally-inspired cuisine and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Open-air dining with a view!
Camparino
4.7 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in a tropical paradise at Camparino Pizzeria Italiana in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Info Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Playa Flamingo with Info Flamingo: Your ultimate visitor center for local attractions, adventures, and unforgettable experiences in Guanacaste.
Flamingo Beach Realty
4.7 km
Experience the beauty of Playa Flamingo with Flamingo Beach Realty, your trusted partner in Costa Rican real estate, offering stunning beachfront properties and investment opportunities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Danta Beach
0.1 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Danta Beach in Guanacaste Province, a perfect escape for sun and surf lovers.
Playa Dantita
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Playa Dantita, a hidden beach gem in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers.
Dantita Beach
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Dantita Beach in Costa Rica, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable tropical escape.
Sugar Beach
0.8 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Sugar Beach in Guanacaste, a perfect getaway for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking sunsets.
Playa Prieta
1.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Prieta, a hidden gem in Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural scenery.
Playa Penca
2.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Penca, a stunning beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
Punta Potrero
2.9 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Punta Potrero, a serene park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Potrero Bay
3.4 km
Experience the tranquil allure of Potrero Bay, a coastal paradise in Costa Rica known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Playa Potrero, Costa Rica
4.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Potrero in Costa Rica, where stunning sunsets and serene waters create the perfect beach getaway.
Potrero Atv tours
4.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Guanacaste Province with thrilling ATV tours in Potrero, Costa Rica, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Playa Potrero
4.2 km
Experience the tranquil charm of Playa Potrero, a hidden beach gem in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Ardilla
4.4 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Ardilla in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a tranquil beach paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Marina Flamingo
4.6 km
Explore Marina Flamingo, a beautiful marina in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offering dining, shopping, and exciting water activities in a stunning coastal setting.
Ocean Life CR Tours
4.8 km
Discover the enchanting marine life of Costa Rica with Ocean Life CR Tours in Playa Flamingo – a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Playa Flamingo
4.8 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Playa Flamingo, a stunning beach destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Essential places to dine
Sentido Norte
0.4 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with stunning views at Sentido Norte in Las Catalinas, Guanacaste.
Nasu Restaurant - Potrero bay beachfront
4.1 km
Experience beachfront dining at Nasu Restaurant in Playa Potrero—where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Hemingway's
4.1 km
Discover Hemingway's: A culinary oasis in Surfside offering authentic Costa Rican flavors and exceptional service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Café del Sol
4.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Café del Sol in Potrero – where flavor meets breathtaking views.
The Shack
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at The Shack in Potrero - where great food meets unforgettable live music!
La Forketta
4.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Forketta in Potrero - home to exquisite pizzas and warm hospitality amidst breathtaking Guanacaste landscapes.
Restaurants Arenas
4.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurants Arenas in Santa Cruz - a culinary treasure nestled in beautiful Guanacaste.
Restaurant Amberes
4.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurant Amberes in Playa Flamingo – a must-visit dining destination for every traveler.
Matias Restaurant
4.7 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Matias Restaurant in Flamingo – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views.
Palmeras Flamingo
4.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Palmeras Flamingo, where every meal celebrates local flavors amidst breathtaking beach views.
Hazel's Steak & Seafood
4.7 km
Discover Hazel's Steak & Seafood in Flamingo: A culinary haven offering fresh seafood and prime steaks with breathtaking ocean views.
Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe
4.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe nestled in Margaritaville Beach Resort - where every meal is a celebration.
The Beach House Bar and Restaurant
4.8 km
Experience mouthwatering local cuisine with stunning ocean views at The Beach House Bar and Restaurant in Playa Potrero.
Banana Wind Cafe
4.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Banana Wind Cafe in Playa Flamingo - where local flavors meet stunning ocean views.
Restaurante Pleamar
4.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Pleamar in Playa Flamingo - where every meal comes with stunning ocean views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bahía Art Shop
4.3 km
Explore Bahía Art Shop in Potrero for unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that capture the spirit of Guanacaste.
ROSTYROFO
4.6 km
Explore RostyRofo in Playa Flamingo for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts and international brands in a vibrant setting.
Terracosta Boutique
4.6 km
Explore Terracosta Boutique for stylish beach and formal wear in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica - perfect for elevating your vacation wardrobe.
Pura Vida Ride
4.7 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit at Pura Vida Ride, the premier outdoor sports store in Guanacaste for unforgettable water and land excursions.
CR Marine Supply
4.7 km
Explore CR Marine Supply in Playa Flamingo for top-notch marine gear and unique local products, enhancing your Costa Rican adventure.
Déntico Flamingo
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Déntico Flamingo, a unique store in Playa Flamingo offering handmade crafts and memorable souvenirs.
Britt Cafe and Bakery
4.7 km
Discover Britt Cafe and Bakery in Playa Flamingo, a cozy coffee shop offering rich coffee and delicious pastries in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning Guanacaste region.
NALU bagel & café flamingo
4.7 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Nalu Bagel & Café in Flamingo, where fresh bagels meet artisanal coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Massai Automart Playa Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Massai Automart Playa Flamingo, your one-stop destination for fresh local produce, unique Costa Rican snacks, and essential supplies in Playa Flamingo.
Farmacia La Plaza Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Playa Flamingo with confidence, knowing Farmacia La Plaza Flamingo is your trusted pharmacy for health and wellness needs.
Super Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Super Flamingo in Playa Flamingo for a diverse range of local and international products, perfect for all your travel needs in Costa Rica.
Morena Handmade Swim
4.7 km
Explore Morena Handmade Swim in Playa Flamingo for unique, handcrafted women's beachwear that embodies the essence of Costa Rica's coastal lifestyle.
Chicho's Cigars
4.7 km
Experience the finest hand-rolled cigars at Chicho's Cigars in Playa Flamingo, where expert staff and tropical vibes create the ultimate smoking sanctuary.
Pan de Azucar Flamingo, ice cream shop
4.7 km
Experience the tropical bliss of Pan de Azucar Flamingo, a must-visit ice cream shop in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica, renowned for its delightful flavors.
Pura Vira Ride
4.7 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit at Pura Vira Ride in Playa Flamingo, where thrilling experiences and stunning coastal views await.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Whiskey Howler beach bar and grill
4.2 km
Experience the best of beachside dining at The Whiskey Howler, where American cuisine meets fresh sushi in a stunning coastal setting.
Donna Maria
4.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Donna Maria, the ideal bar in Playa Flamingo for cocktails, local flavors, and unforgettable sunsets.
Monkey's Bar/Restaurant
6.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Monkey's Bar/Restaurant in Guanacaste, a unique grill perfect for beachside dining.
Lounge 24
6.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Lounge 24, your ideal retreat in Matapalo, Guanacaste for relaxation and refreshing drinks.
Chicos Bar
11.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Chicos Bar, a top grill destination in Coco, perfect for food lovers and social butterflies.
Bar Flipper
12.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Flipper in Coco, Costa Rica, where delicious food and drinks meet a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Bar El Ancla
12.5 km
Experience the vibrant coastal life at Bar El Ancla, a beachfront bar in Coco, Guanacaste, perfect for relaxing with drinks and local cuisine.
Tortuga Bar
12.6 km
Discover Tortuga Bar in Coco, Costa Rica - a lively grill bar offering delicious cuisine and stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Garden Bar
12.7 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Garden Bar in Playa del Coco, where fresh flavors and a relaxing atmosphere await.
Zarpe
13.1 km
Discover Zarpe, the ultimate cocktail bar in Playa del Coco, offering unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for every occasion.
Pacífico Beach Club
13.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views at Pacífico Beach Club, a premier bar and restaurant in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar Makai
16.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Makai in Playa Hermosa, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Chop House
19.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Chop House in Tamarindo, a must-visit for gourmet burgers, tapas, and a lively sports bar experience.
Volcano Brewing Company
20.6 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Volcano Brewing Company in Tamarindo, where local flavors and vibrant atmosphere meet.
El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club
21.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club, a must-visit restaurant in Costa Rica.
